back up bilge pump?

[netting one]

would like to install a back up but not sure how to wire it in? thinking of installing a complete new switch and all new wiring but not sure, any one have any ideas?

 

[Sea Rider]

Yep, install it completely independent from current one will be the way to go.

Happy Boating

 

[ajgraz]

And on a different battery, if you have more than one aboard.

 

[GA_Boater]

I added a backup pump on a float switch directly to the battery. Basically the new pump is the automatic primary and dash switch controlled pump is the manual emergency backup.

 

[ajgraz]

I added a backup pump on a float switch directly to the battery. Basically the new pump is the automatic primary and dash switch controlled pump is the manual emergency backup.

This is exactly what I'm thinking about doing. Can't decide which should be on the starting battery and which on the "house" battery, though?

 

[GA_Boater]

I think the starting battery.

Why? Because the starting battery has the smallest load for only starting and will have a better chance of a higher charge and longer running time when it hits the fan. The house battery goes through drain and charge cycles and you wouldn't want to rely on it when the pump needs all the juice.

Anyway, that's my reasoning.

 

[H20Rat]

I think the starting battery.

Why? Because the starting battery has the smallest load for only starting and will have a better chance of a higher charge and longer running time when it hits the fan. The house battery goes through drain and charge cycles and you wouldn't want to rely on it when the pump needs all the juice.

Anyway, that's my reasoning.

Except depending on the setup, the house battery might actually be a very large battery bank with multiple deep cycle batteries. Not enough info to tell though.

 

[crazy charlie]

always a great idea to have a backup.Make it 100% independent of the other pump.Charlie

 

[jkust]

I would add to create a new outlet for the pump hose though the side of the boat for if it really hits the fan...I don't know what style of boat you have however so may be moot.

 

[Mischief Managed]

My boat has a raw water wash down with a through-hull for the water supply. I installed a 3-way ball valve between the through hull and the pump and attached a short section of hose that goes into the bilge to the extra leg on the valve. This way, I can use it as a wash down, or flip the valve, put the output hose overboard, and use it as a backup bilge pump. The valve makes winterizing the pump easy too. Would be a nice upgrade if you don't already have a wash down pump. It's not as powerful as a bilge pump, but as a backup it's better than none. I also carry a manual bilge pump, BTW.

 

[boatman37]

i hope to do the same to mine before splashing this spring. my plan is to add a separate pump and float and cut a new thru hull on the opposite side of the original. i would also like to install an alarm (alarms) so i know when it goes off. or maybe a light on the dash for the primary and an audible alarm for the secondary?

 

[netting one]

Well thanks guys, looks like i have my answer. Complete system it is. thanks again